Best theme for Sonic.

Technically any game's main song is also considered a song for Sonic, such as "Live and Learn," "Endless Possibilities," "Knight of the Wind," or "7 Rings in Hand." However I'm only focusing on themes that are specifically and repeatedly Sonic's (so excluding most of those "game" themes as well as "team" songs like "We Can" or "Sonic Speed Riders" and shared themes like "What I'm Made Of" or "Open Your Heart"). That leaves 3 songs, "It Doesn't Matter," "His World," and "Reach for the Stars."  

    

Background

It Doesn't Matter

The song debuted in Sonic Adventure, returning in the sequel and reappearing in Sonic and the Black Knight. While it did not receive the same attention as the Crush 40 songs, the song is still a fan favorite. There remains three vocal versions (SA, SA2, and the later made S.A.M.E.) and a few instrumentals. 

His World

Even though Sonic 06 received backlash, its soundtrack was immune. "His World" instantly became a Sonic-must. Being the game's main theme it received numerous instrumental versions prevalent through out the game. Some of these were also reused elsewhere, such as in Brawl. Three main vocal versions were created: the game version, Zebrahead's version, and Crush 40's version. 

Reach for the Stars

"Reach of the Stars" was made Sonic's theme after the good reception to Sonic Colors. The song received many instrumental themes through out the 2010s, appearing in almost every many games released in the Current Era. There is now a second version of the vocal song made for Sonic Colors Ultimate.  

Winner

It Doesn't Matter

Actually, I believe "His World" is the best song out of the three. But as a theme for Sonic that reflects his personality and spirit, "It Doesn't Matter" is the best choice. While not worded the best, the lyrics do narrate his point of view. Additionally the genre seems to be a 90s-early 2000s punk-rock mix, which is the best reflection of the character.

The SA2 version was defiantly handled better, but the S.A.M.E. version combines the strengths of each. The Black Knight instrumentals also tamed the song into something quite beautiful (the fan-art music). 

 

Runner-up

His World

"His World" makes a great introduction into the attitude and drama that 06 tried so hard to emulate. The grand instrumentation aside sassy rap and defining lyrics makes it a memorable song. 

I think the Zebrahead and Crush 40 versions are superior and less random the original, however. While it makes a grand theme overall, it just doesn't work as well as a character theme. It's also hard to separate it from 06 or others in the game.  

LOSER

Reach for the Stars

I can't stand the song. It's a 2010s nightmare. Even trying to set aside my personal disgust, I can't see how it makes a good theme for Sonic specifically. How does "the colors feel so right" reflect him? The song was clearly written with the game rather than character in mind. The genre and vocals seem much more suitable for Silver, and the instrumentation is simply too modern-synthetic to reflect a 90s videogame-icon. 

"Endless Possibilities" would have been a better idea since the song is less game-focused (and not to mention it is better by a long shot). "Reach for the Stars" should have been exclusive to Sonic Colors. 

Eras UPDATE: Modern

ALL about the Modern Era

Era: Modern

Main Years: 2005-2010

Gameplay Type: The modern era is a much more experimental time for 3D and 2D games a like. 

Sonic returned to racing games in the Riders series, featuring new moves, tricks, and gimmicks. Sonic's venture to the Wii also meant several different styles. Sometimes the controls meant holding the remote sideways, sometimes it meant a nunchuck. Confusingly, the controls were almost always different. 

Sonic the Hedgehog, a game similar to the "adventure" style, would be released in 2006 for Sonic's 15th anniversary. Unfortunately, the development team was split apart and then rushed...the result being a game infamous for its numerous glitches. 

Sonic had more critical success with his 2D.5 handheld titles. Sonic Rush is notable for introducing the boost, which would soon become a Sonic norm. Sonic Unleashed was the first console game to feature the element, but the game also introduced a style more focused on fighting via the Werehog stages. 

Character Designs and Personalities: Sonic 06 slightly redesigned the main cast to fit better with the more realistic setting. In Sonic's case this meant height and shape a bit, making the character less round. The concept art reveals that they wanted to give Sonic a more realistic texture, though this was obviously cut. In 06, Eggman was designed to resemble a real human, but to to poor reception he never appeared this way again.      

Generally the same attitude that filled the previous era affected this one. In the Riders series, the Storybook series, and the Rivals series, a lot of the characters have sly remarks and memorable banter. Sonic 06 is a bit of an oddball due to the nature of the plot, making many of the characters act more serious or even passive. 

Sonic Unleashed and Sonic and the Black Knight have been praised for their particular versions of Sonic, which has been described as more serious without losing his flair.     

Story Type: Building upon some of the plots seen before, the Modern era made itself more mature with "darker" plots, though it had lighthearted moments. 

New villains like Eggman Nega, Mephiles, and the Erazor Djinn became threats equal to/greater than Eggman himself. Like with previous games, sometimes Eggman would actually help if there was a greater threat (though not always, or sometimes the result was betrayal). 

Like before Sonic also gained many new friends like Sharah, Caliburn, and Chip. After the success of Shadow, several new rival characters were created. Blaze the Cat would eventually become a friend, but makes her debut as a fiery rival. Jet the Hawk and the Babylon Rogues challenge Sonic in the air.  Silver the Hedgehog meets Sonic for the first time twice, and tries to fight him immediately in each case. And Johnny the...robot pirate...shark....thing...refused any emerald without a race.  

Visuals: While some games have aged better than others, for the first time the graphics aren't...crude. Although a lot of openings are actually also first cutscenes, they all look pretty well. While the standard cutscenes are usually nothing to brag about, the CG cutscenes have mostly aged amazingly well. Additionally Sonic Riders marked the return to 2D animation with its opening.     

The settings used a lot of diversity, relying even more on earth for inspiration. 06 used Venice as the base for Soleanna, and Unleashed used a number of locations and real-world landmarks to create similar ones. Common locations were cities, jungles, deserts, seascapes, castles, and snowy mountains.  

Music: Like with gameplay, the music experimented with different things. The Riders series dived into high-energy techno while the Rush games used samples and unique effects. The storybook games immersed themselves in themes of their fantasy worlds. 06 has a beloved OST with tracks that impress even the most critical haters. Unleashed has been called the best in the series, having a culturally inspired mix for day, night, and hub world locations. 

These years were filled with many different vocal themes. A distinct difference from the last era is Crush 40 (previously doing most of the main songs and being associated with Sonic). While they would still contribute to the games (especially Black Knight), they started to become associated with Shadow (after both Shadow the Hedgehog and Sonic 06).  Meanwhile many of Sonic's new songs like "His World,""7 Rings in Hand," and "Endless Possibilities," would be done by others.           

Voice Cast: Although much of the cast had already voiced the characters on Sonic X, due to the amount of new characters several other actors joined the main cast. 

Sonic, Shadow, and Jet were all voiced by Jason Griffith, while Eggman was voiced by Mike Pollock. Amy Palant voiced Tails, with Dan Green as Knuckles (as well as Storm, Mephlies, and Professor Pickle). Dan Green also began voicing Vector. Lisa Ortiz voiced Amy, while Bella Hudson took on the characters Wave the Swallow, Blaze the Cat, and Sharah the Genie. Silver was Pete Capella. 

Veronica Taylor (known for voicing Ash from Pokemon and April in 03 TMNT) was supposed to voice Princess Elise, but was replaced by "celebrity" actress Lacey Chabert (known for voicing Eliza in The Wild Thornberrys and Meg in the first season of Family Guy).   

The characters Merlina, Caliburn, and King Arthur were intended to be British. Sega chose the voice actors for these new characters (one actor being from Nights).  

Controversy 

After first taking over, the 4kids cast gained a lot of negativity from fans. Even though they had been voicing voicing the characters since 2003 (via Sonic X), most missed the previous cast that started with Sonic Adventure. Eventually fans warmed up to the new cast, with some being called better than the previous group. They also praised the improvements over the years. Whether Jason Griffith or Ryan Drummond was the better Sonic remains a common fan debate.      

In late 2010 with Sonic Free Riders, however, Sega decided to hire new actors, with the exception of Mike Pollock. As with the first time, the move did not sit well with fans. In particular fans were upset that Sega just offered Sonic's new voice actor, Roger Craig Smith, the job. Smith later clarified he did do an audition.  

 

Main Voice (Sonic): Jason Griffith

Memorable Theme Song (for Sonic): "His World" (from Sonic 06). 

Memorable Catchphrases (Sonic):  "ALRIGHT...Bring it on!" (Sonic Riders) "Alright, lets have some fun Solaris." (Sonic 06) "Sonic...BOOM!" (Sonic Rivals) "I'm not a rat!" "No problem" "This just isn't my day!" "Too Easy" "That was tight!" "Lend me your...POWER!" (Sonic and the Secret Rings) "Whoo!" Here...we...go!" "Feelin' Good." "Eh, can't win 'em all." (Sonic Unleashed) "Your too slow!" "Come on, step it up!" (Brawl) 

"I'm a hedgehog, pal, not a guinea pig."  (cartoon)

Cartoons and other Appearances: Since it aired a bit later and has a different tone, the 3rd season of Sonic X is arguably the cartoon of the modern era. The plot of the "darker" final season is less randomized and mainly focused on saving the universe from a threatening alien species, the Meterex. 

Years later, a 3-D animated short that tied-into Sonic Unleashed, "Sonic: Night of the Werehog," was created. It had a playful plot including Chip and ghosts. 

Archie created a new spin-off based on Sonic X, which was more successful than they expected, lasting for 40 issues. 

In 2006 the Archie comics turned a new page when Ian Flynn, now infamous in the Sonic-comic community, began writing for the comics. He tried to make the series more akin to the games, but also tried to "clean-up" what happened to the main "Sat Am" cast. He tried to heal the relationship between Sonic and Sally, recreated "Evil Sonic" as Scourge, and tied up many loose ends. 

In late 2009, Sonic Universe, another spin-off, was made. Through this series Flynn introduced and reintroduced many game characters like Blaze the Cat, Gamma, Omega, Marine, and the Babylon Rogues. With flashbacks, parts of the games were now partially adapted...although tie-ins would be limited to non-canon "in another time/place" one-offs.   

Character Quotes

 

"Killing someone...to save the world...is that really the right thing to do?" 

-Silver the Hedgehog, Sonic 06

Quote of the Month

 

"Ha! There's no strength in numbers!" 

-Shadow the Hedgehog, Sonic 06

Sonic 06 OST Review

Summary

Sonic 06 is loved by Sonic fans, with many calling it the best 3D Sonic game and the best made in the 2000s. No, not at all, but probably in some other dimension. 

While Sonic 06 may be hated by Sonic fans and random people who like to make fun of the franchise, no one can find anything faults with the epic soundtrack. 

There's a variety in speed and instrumentation with stage music and the cutscene/additional music sounds like a movie. Not to mention some of the most kick-xxx themes of the series. 

Best Song: Mephiles Phaze 2

Runner-Up (s): Flame Core (both), White Accropiols (both), Crisis City (all), Aquatic Base (both), Radical Train (both), Mephiles' Whisper/Temptation/Showdown with/Phase 1, Iblis Phase 1/3, Solaris 1/2, You Are My Companion, Wave ocean (water's edge)

Mepiles' theme is creepy enough on it's own, and Phase 1 was exceptional. But Phase 2 is even more complex. Creepy bell tolling, soundeffects and synthesizers, vocals, guitar, all done to not only make Mephiles seem creepy but powerful, evil, and undefeatable.   

It was hard to decide, but part of the reason I chose it is because there is not villain theme quite as cut-throat as it. Eggman is bad, we've got that since Sonic 1. Infintie's more like a rival. But Mephiles is the series' "pure evil." 

Worst Song: Town mission 1

Runner Up (s): Determination: Return to the Future, Tropical Jungle (the ruins)

It's not really bad as far as instrumentation, just kinda' cheesy.

Best Vocal Song: His World (Crush 40)

Runner-Up (s): His World (Zebrahead), All Hail Shadow, His World, Dreams of Absolution, My Destiny, Dreams of Absolution LB x JS Remix

For the longest time I could not decide between Crush 40's or Zebrahead's version of "His World," but this time Crush 40 wins out. It maybe slower, but it keeps the atmospheric quality of the original while adding one killer guitar solo. The rearranged lyrics give it its own identity, and it seems like a an epic, sort of a "legend" like the Storybook series or something.   

Worst Vocal Song: Sweet Dreams [Akon Mix]

Runner Up (s): Sweet Sweet Sweet [Akon mix]

"Sweet Dreams" was originally a song in the 90s put into Sonic 2 (instrumental) because the composer was a part of the band (Dreams Come True). Because romance was added to the plot, and this an anniversary game, they added a remix of the song to the game. So it's a bit of an Easter egg, and anyone who played Sonic 2 should at least think the song sounds familiar. 

While it was used for the Sonic-Elise relationship, that does NOT mean Sega was trying to imply they were...doing things under the stars. The lyrics were NOT made for this game because it was written years prior. It does not help the situation, but I actually think the singing is great. That's not why I'm complaining. It's Akon. 

The mix just does not match up. The additions make the whole idea even weirder and shadier than it needs to be. The song is just beautiful with out it. It only makes sense for the Japanese version because it's still English and kinda' serves as a part-translation. 

It's still a nice song, but I really wish they had left it alone.  

Final Ranking: S

Sonic the Hdgehog (2006)'s OST is phenomenal. The quality and collection of instruments and sounds is professional and impressive. The cutscenes are more cinematic, the levels add speed and atmosphere, and the vocal themes are some of the best in the series. It seems the game at least reached its potential one way: through its music. 

Quote of the Month

"You...it can't be..."
--Princess Elise, Sonic the Hedgehog (2006)

Emerald Coast vs Wave Ocean: Conclusion

Surprisingly, Wave Ocean and Emerald Coast tied. However, as a whole there can only be one winner. After considering the different elements, a choice had to be made. 

Review

Emerald Coast was decided better: 

1. Gameplay
2. Sonic's stage
3. Story

Wave Ocean was decided better:

1. Visuals
2. Music
3. Other characters' stages 

The better level is: Emerald Coast

What really gave Emerald Coast the edge in the end was creativity. Wave Ocean was a nice nod at Emerald Coast, but with the moving spikes, flying seagulls, swimming dolphins, and angry Orcas, some might call it too much of a "rip-off." 

While there had been hints of beaches in the past, Emerald Coast is the first to really focus on that type of scenery. Like Speed Highway, many remember the level fondly and it was apparently used in the DS version of Sonic Generations. It inspired many other zones other than Wave Ocean, including Neo Green Hill and Seaside Hill. 

Wave Ocean was still pretty nice. It's better visuals and music make a better atmosphere. It might be a better "tourist" location, but this is a video game, designed to be played through. In that sense, Emerald Coast makes a better level.

...

Sorry, but the best beach-themed level is actually Jungle Joyride. 

Emerald Coast vs Wave Ocean: Others

Neither level was exclusive to Sonic. 

Big the Cat and E-102 Gamma both go to Emerald Coast. Amy, Knuckles, at one time Tails could all glitch into the first portion of Sonic's Emerald Coast. 

Wave Ocean was visited by Tails, Blaze, Omega, Shadow, and Rouge in the End of the World.  

Big's is slow and tedious, like all Big levels. There is a nice secret room to fish at, if only I was patient enough to appreciate such a thing. Still, since Big always has to be around water (to fish) this one is visually nicer and makes the most sense. 

Gamma is not here long. It's only his second stage and he finds Froggy a heck of a lot faster than Big ever did. 

It's cool to glitch in with other characters. Thankfully Knuckles could still climb things. Amy's seemed a bit glitch-ier, and I don't think Tails is possible on the re-releases. It's cool but really it's just Sonic's level again.

Tails is in Wave Ocean. Again. To make things more boring, it's mostly the same location. The goal ring is even where Tails had to get the switch in Sonic's level. Tails feels just as pointless in Wave Ocean as his reason for being there. 

It's nicer to play as Blaze because her moves are more complex yet she has a speed closer to Sonic's. Her level is nice and short. Kind of a shame, because I wouldn't mind being stuck with a longer level, since this seems to be the closest thing to 3-D Sonic Rush possible. 

Shadow glides in, kinda' boring but at least it's not the same loop-de-loop everyone else st--Omega. Omega goes through the "Sonic" section, making him the 3rd. Luckily Shadow's part is a bit more interesting, if not scattered. As an interesting bonus, it's also possible to use Omega to "fly" to the goal and finish early. Still not totally necessary, though, since the level's fairly short compared to the 06 standard.   

I really like the stormy, lighting effect Wave Ocean has in the "end" level. Rouge's is a breeze since she can climb and glide, making her section a nice break after Silver's longer path. 

Winner: Wave Ocean

Sonic 06 overused Wave Ocean, mainly the "sonic section."  They all mostly start the same. At least robots have been rotated out I guess. 

However Adventure underused Emerald Coast. I didn't know how badly I needed to see Knux vs Whale until using that glitch...ha, anyway. Adventure didn't do to much aside from Sonic's level. Big's looked nice but he's too slow to be a fun explorer like Knuckles. Gamma's was pathetically short--it was a bit of a shock, I think. 

I do think that Blaze and Shadow have better gameplay than most 06 characters, and they help balance out the double-Tails experience. 

Emerald Coast vs Wave Ocean: Sonic

Both Sonic Adventure and Sonic 06 had similar levels for Sonic. Which is stage plays out the best? 

Emerald Coast is Sonic's first level. He quickly leaves the hotel behind and navigates the nearby docks and formations while taking out a few robots. He's chased by an orca! After passing a light house, the second part of the stage begins. Passing through caves and water, Sonic makes his way back out to the sandy coast until he reaches a bare stretch and finds Tails/hits the capsule. 

Wave Ocean is Sonic's first level. He quickly slides into the water and fights off nearby bots. After grinding past a lighthouse, he soon ends up chased by an orca! Stuck, Sonic asks Tails for help. Tails then has to find a switch before Sonic can move on. The next part is a "mach speed" section, where Sonic speeds up tries not to run into everything. After, he hits the goal ring.  

Winner: Emerald Coast

Wave Ocean is big and nice to explore. Though not the most original concept, there was an effort to add something new to the whale idea. Where things start to slow is with Tails, which is a bit annoying and seemingly unnecessary for a beginning level. I'm not a fan of the fast and tricky "mach" sections, but this might be the best one in the game, sadly.  

Emerald Coast, meanwhile, is just right for a starting level. It has a short pace, plenty of rings and hints for new players, and it was all new and original. The only con is the greenish water part, but it can be avoided with a simple shortcut. 

Sonic's style is better in the layout of Emerald Coast. 

Emerald Coast vs Wave Ocean: "Story"

There has to be a reason to be in a level, even if it's just to get to the next. 

Sonic sees his bud Tails crash in Emerald Coast and runs to help. Later Big looks for Froggy and Gamma finds Froggy. 

After Elise is kidnapped, Sonic and Tails head to Wave Ocean to track her. Eggman gets away, unfortunately, and later Tails returns yet again to try to help Elise but fails. Blaze heads towards town to try and find Silver in the meantime. Omega tracks Mephiles to Wave Ocean, and Shadow rushes there to help. 

Winner: Emerald Coast  

Shadow's story in 06 is awesome and "Omega's Confession," one of my favorite cutscenes, does take place in Wave Ocean. Shadow's reason for being there also makes the most sense. Still, what's Mephiles doing in Wave Ocean, anyway? Mephiles likes the beach? And maybe Rouge should have had a playable section, too, since she's also there.

Why did Mephiles separate Silver and Blaze? It makes sense for her to want to find him, but she could have been left in any other stage and it would not have made a difference. 

As for Sonic and Tails...it's bad enough to deal with the Mario/damsel-in-distress thing once, but twice in the same place? Elise shouldn't have been 'napped right away. The first Wave Ocean should have been a more relaxed, fun level for Sonic/Tails and for the player to adjust to the controls. And the second one shouldn't have been a thing. 

Sonic had a clear cut reason to be Emerald Coast, simple and short enough. And Big and Gamma's connected to the story, at least. Emerald Coast never felt forced, it just felt like a part of the game. Sonic, Big, and Gamma each went to Emerald Coast to get things done. And they did. Well...Sonic and Gamma did. But Big got some fish out of it probably.  

Emerald Coast vs Wave Ocean: Gameplay

Sonic Adventure wasn't perfect. In this case there are some spots that aren't the best while spin dashing, and Sonic doesn't like to stay on the walls he's running on. Generally seems awkward and primitive compared to the future. 

Sonic 06 is no picnic. Sure, glitches can be exploited, but they aren't supposed to be there. As with any level, the problems can vary from lag or camera angles that should not be possible to characters not doing their moves or going where they should not be able to. 

Winner: Emerald Coast

The springs and wall jump bother me, as well as a few spots like on the wall, but it is generally smooth. Emerald Coast feels set up faster, too. 

06 is not as bad as people believe, but glitches are sadly a guarantee. One good thing is that the water won't slow the characters down as in Adventure. Sonic usually is slower in water, but since it is shallow and he's not under it I preferred it without the slow-down.  

Sonic Adventure was not perfect, but Emerald Coast was fair. Wave Ocean, meanwhile, wasn't a kind welcome to new players.  

Emerald Coast vs Wave Ocean: Music

Emerald Coast is easily identifiable as a song of Sonic Adventure with it's rock and guitar-led tones, though it takes on a more laid back style to match the location. Might be some old Sonic 3D Blast in there a bit, too. There is "Azure Blue World," "Windy & Ripply for Emerald Coast," and, lazier, "Big fishes at Emerald Coast."

One thing that isn't criticized when it comes to 06 is the soundtrack. It's an atmospheric mix of instruments and even some simple vocals at points. The relaxed track "The Water's Edge" turns into the faster/edgier, "The Inlet."

Winner: Wave Ocean

This is certainly an example of how music can have different effects. These levels look a lot a like, but the tracks for Emerald Coast seem to mix the adventure with the feel of a hot summer day. Meanwhile Wave Ocean gives off a cooler vibe, more like a focus on the water instead. 

"Azure Blue World" helps set the pace, but the similar "Windy & Ripply" was more relaxed and better suited for the location. Big's certainly has a different rhythm, but I also think it matches the location a bit better that "Azure Blue World." 

In Wave Ocean, "The Water's Edge" is pretty stunning. It's calm yet picks up when it needs to. The mix of instruments is beautiful and it's perfect for the beach. "The Inlet" matches the sudden change in speed for Sonic and seems to catch some of his attitude with it.  

Overall there's no question. Emerald's Coast music was good, but Wave Ocean blows it out of the water. 

Emerald Coast vs Wave Ocean: Visuals

Some people are more affected by graphics than others. For the not-so realistic Sonic series, most aren't expecting the best, but having clarity and varying designs is always a plus. 

A vacation resort, Emerald Coast is just beyond Station Square's hotel. Wooden and sand paths lead past a light house and waterfall while coconut palms grow all over. Meanwhile the location is home to packs of seagulls and fish, as well as friendly dolphins and a pesky killer whale. 

Soleanna relies heavily on tourism, and "the City of Water" also has itself a nice nearby beach, Wave Ocean. It sports many of the same elements, including Seagulls, Dolphins, and more Orcas as well as similar rock formations, etc. 

 

Winner of this round: Wave Ocean 

I was genuinely surprised at how much of an improvement there actually was. 

I tend to remember Wave Ocean as mostly ugly rock formations, and the lighter versions in Emerald Coast are better. There is also something very likable about Emerald Coast's blue water, and I love the details like the lounge chairs and both colorful & thatch umbrellas. 

The returning elements have been improved upon in 06. The chairs are now wooden but especially the umbrellas are similar. The wood paths are more defined, and the water's hues are calmer and a bit closer to real life. There are more dolphins, but notably less birds (which is fine because Adventure may have gotten a bit carried away). The plants look a little more unique, too. 

Surprisingly the background is greatly improved. While it just looked like a picture wrapped around the level in Sonic Adventure, tricks like mist and fading gave Wave Ocean more depth. 

While Emerald Coast had little more than a piece of the hotel and a few wood platforms in the area surrounding, Wave Ocean had nice rows of colorful sailboats parked along wooden shacks. 

Wave Ocean is, visually, better than it's predecessor. 

Emerald Coast vs Wave Ocean: Intro

Just as Green Hill became an instant classic, many Dreamcast-ers and transitional fans grew immediately fond of Sonic Adventure's Emerald Coast, though ultimately Seaside Hill (Sonic Heroes) would be used more. 

Even though the game performed poorly, the 2006 game Sonic the Hedgehog created a re-imagined Emerald Coast, Wave Ocean, as homage to Sonic's "first" 3-D level. 

Which is better?

For most the answer seems obvious. Emerald Coast. Sonic Adventure is beloved, and 06 is considered the series' lowest point. Done deal, right? Not exactly. 

Despite 06's naturally glitch-ier state, it did have roughly seven years to try and gain some advantages. That into account, it's possible Wave Ocean was actually an improvement over Emerald Coast.

But 06 is 06, and Adventure is Adventure. Many factors will have to be considered...Are these beach-themed levels are really that different? It's time to find out. 

Sonic 06 References/Easter Eggs

Despite being planned as a soft-reboot and wanting to bring Sonic back to his "roots," Sonic the Hedgehog (2006) was a complete failure among fans and new players a like. Though it may not be the horrendous monster everyone seems to call it, it was not the promised "Sonic-Next Gen." 

As a constellation prize, the 15th anniversary game still holds many hints at other games, even though it was supposed to be a "reboot." 

Notable Reoccurring Elements

• Invincibility
• 0 being a life
• Super Sonic
• Super Shadow
• Spindash
• Chaos Spear (modified)
• Flying
• Gliding
• Grinding
• Amy's Hammer

Sonic 1

• The platforms in Spring Yard Zone's boss fight are taken out by Robotnik, and the floor is also targeted in the Egg Wyvern boss fight. 
• The idea of Sonic having a having a human girlfriend originates here; in early plans Sonic had a girlfriend named Madonna. 

Sonic CD

• Time Travel is once again an important element.
• Crisis City revives the idea of a "bad future." 
• With the purple gem, Sonic can shrink and jump high. This idea is directly from Sonic CD's Metallic Madness, where Sonic is scaled down by a laser. 

Sonic 2

• The main theme "Sweet Dreams" is remixed and put at the credits in Sonic's story. 
• Aside from the game's new characters (such as Elise and Silver), Tails appears 3rd (after Sonic and Eggman), as he did in real life.  

Sonic 3

• Sonic snow boards in White Acropolis, as he originally did in Ice Cap. 

Sonic and Knuckles

• Lava Reef's fiery outside and darker inside may have inspired Flame Core. 

Sonic X-treme

• At one point Sonic's love interest--Tiara--was to be a princess, but that was later changed and the game was scrapped. This may have impacted the ideas for Sonic's new love interest, though.  

Sonic Adventure

• Both games are divided into "stories" revolving around different characters. 
• Wave Ocean closely resembles Emerald Coast. 
• The Orca reappears in Wave Ocean. 
• Once again there are chatty humans in hub worlds. 
• After meeting up with Sonic, Tails says "Long time no see, huh?" while after finding Tails in 06 Sonic says "Long time no see!"
• Iblis may have been inspired by Chaos, being an element-powered monster that transforms.
• Knuckles' treasure hunting skills are mentioned.
• Crisis City includes worn Chao in Space 3 signs; Sonic Adventure started the "Chao in Space" gag.   
• Adventure also had the first Chao Gardens, and there are signs in Crisis City mentioning a Chao garden.
• Eggman's "battleship" is another version of the Egg Carrier.  

Like in Station Square, New City was supposed to have cars. These can be found with the "Shadow New Town" glitch, but they crash into everything.  

Sonic Shuffle

• The theme of Light and Dark originated in this game. 

Sonic Adventure 2

• The "Solairs Project" was mostly likely intended as 06's "Project: Shadow."
• Flashbacks are used again. 
• Amy mistakes Silver for Sonic, just like she mistook Shadow for him. 
• GUN is present. 
• The president is mentioned.
• Rouge's treasure hunting skills are mentioned as well as used (in Kingdom Valley). 
• Rouge finds keys to move on; she hunted keys before in Egg Quarters. 
• Sonic rides a metal board in Crisis City, like in City Escape. 
• Sonic can preform a wind move with a gem. Sonic's first wind attack was from this game. 
• Eggman tricks Sonic into giving him the (fake) emerald with Amy as a hostage but traps him. He does the same with Elise except the emerald was real. 
• Canon's Core uses all playable characters except Shadow. End of the World uses all playable characters except Sonic and Blaze.

Sonic Heroes

• Eggman leaves Sonic a recording, similar to the beginning of Team Hero's story. 
• Amy turns invisible, something previously exclusive to Espio.
• Sonic "shares" his super state in both games.
• The version of the wind move for Sonic came from this game.
• Tails says "My head's spinning!" while going through loops in both games.  

Sonic Rush

• Inclusion of "new" character, Blaze the Cat.
• Blaze calling Silver naive is similar to her initial opinion on Cream.
• At the end of Blaze's story, she asks Cream, "We-We're friends, right?" Meanwhile in 06 Silver asks Blaze, "You're my friend, right?"
• The background for Princess Elise may be a nod to Blaze's fire/princess backstory. 
• One gem includes the "boost," though it does not work the same way as in Rush. 

Although there was not explanation for her presence, some unused voice clips suggest Blaze would have mentioned Sonic and talked to Amy.

Shadow the Hedgehog

• While fighting Mephiles, Shadow says, "I know who I am," directly referring to his repeated line, "this is who I am."  
• He also repeats the phrase "Who are you?! And how do you know my name...?"
• Shadow chases Eggman's train in Radical Train like with the Black Arms' tank in Lethal Highway's hero mission. 
• The Shadow/Sonic banter before Flame Core is not unlike the scene after Lethal Highway. 
• The punch/kick move preformed when without a gun is an early version of the move Shadow primarily uses in 06; he uses a version of Chaos Blast. 
• Shadow can/has to drive vehicles in some of the stages.
• Shadow drives through/destroys falling walls in both the GUN Fortress and later in Aquatic Base.
• Westopolis being a distressed city as the first level was echoed with Silver (Crisis City).    
• There is a fire tornado in Crisis City and a dusty one in Glyphic Canyon. 
• The tornado section of Crisis City for Sonic plays a lot like Cosmic Fall, including floating/moving/spinning platforms.  
• Shadow can get past a secret door after collecting 5 keys in each level. These keys resemble the ones Rouge has to find in Kingdom Valley. 
• Rouge comments on Death Ruins, expressing the desire to treasure hunt there some other time. In a similar way, she calls Tropical Jungle "Charming." 
• Shadow's theme is "All Hail Shadow." The original version was his hero-ending theme. 

Expert Mode implies that the Commander wanted to make amends with Shadow; Shadow works for GUN in 06. 

Sonic Riders

• While boarding the player must hold X before lifting off. This is how the jumps were handled in Sonic Riders (though control over tricks are not possible in 06). 

("Early") Sonic Cartoons/comics/etc

•  Sonic would often carry his love interest in a similar way to Elise (also present in Sonic CD).
• When Sara from the OVA wears her "wedding" dress, she and Elise visually look alike (pun intended). 
• Sally Acorn and Sonia the Hedgehog are both princesses, which may have inspired the title for Elise. 
• Despite the Mobian/tomboyish appearance, Sonic's (long-time) Western love interest, Sally, had reddish/brown hair and blue eyes, which may have influenced Elise to have those traits. 
• In the US, Amy was originally named Princess Sally, which again may have some influence on title. 
• Sonic introduces himself as "Sonic, Sonic the Hedgehog." He often did the same in Sonic X. 
• Shadow takes off his rings, something originating from Sonic X.
• There is a girl in the hub world who wears a shirt similar to Chris.
• The scene where Eggman sends Sonic & co to the future is similar to the 1st episode of Sonic X were he send them to another dimension (though it was not intentional in that case). 

Similarities to Sonic and the Secret Rings

The game was originally going to be a Wii version of 06 and was made at the same time.

• Sand Oasis is a level in Sonic and the Secret Rings. Two "secret" oasis-es can be found in Dusty Desert.  
• Sonic goes on an adventure with a human-like girl character, though just as a friend. 
• He tells both girls to smile. 
• Sonic is called a rat several times; Eggman calls him a rat in 06. 
• The Erazor mentions "Iblis."
• A character is killed and brought back to life. 
• The events of 06 are un-done by time travel and are forgotten or only partially remembered--as if it never happened. Since only he journeyed to the world, the events of Secret Rings are only remembered by Sonic, almost as if they never happened. 
• Both have a generally "darker" tone.

Cover vs Original: All Hail Shadow

"All Hail Shadow" was Shadow's True Hero theme in Shadow the Hedgehog. It returned as a cover in Sonic 06. Since then, the song has become Shadow's main theme.

Original (Magna-Fi)

Rough vocals narrate Shadow's situation while the instruments create an air of confidence. Together, they create a theme of finding ones' self and achieving victory.

Crush 40 version

The cover adds in a new portion in the beginning featuring a intense bit from "I am...All of Me." This version seems more focused on determination and Shadow overcoming his past.

Winner: Cover

Adding the that edgy begging was a plus, and generally I think the vocals the are better, too. In the original I like the whispery "all hail Shadow" and think the part "nothing ever fills this hole inside your heart" is amazing. However when compared with Crush 40, Johnny Gioeli's voice combined with Jun Senoue's guitar proves unbeatable.

The original is underrated, but Crush 40 did a better job.

Cover vs Original: His World

His World, the theme of Sonic 06, is unique as there are three versions (actually there are instrumental versions, too, but...). Zebrahead remade the song at a faster pace and "Sonic" band Crush 40 also covered it.

Original Version

The song starts atmospheric and settles into a rap about Sonic. The chorus goes on to describe "his world." The song highlights what makes Sonic unique and leads into an epic guitar solo.

Zebrahead Version

An intense, fast version that combines different genres for an edgy unique sound. It's focus on speed and building momentum from beginning to end is awesome.

Crush 40 version 

Though slower than the other versions, the song is fantastic. The vocals are strong and carry a different feeling than that of the other two, more like an emphasis on Sonic's world and 06 as a whole rather than just Sonic.

Winner: Cover(s) I don't think I could choose between either of the covers. They're too dang good. I guess I'd say the Zebrahead one is better for Sonic, and the Crush 40 one better for the 06/the Sonic series.

While the original was good, it doesn't come close to either of the covers.

Best Villain? Part 6: EEEVIL

If asked which enemy in the Sonic series is the most evil or the "darkest," there is one obvious answer. Mephiles!

Sonic 06 is a controversy in many ways. Some have praised it's intentions, and some have found silver linings in the notoriously glitchy game. Most, however, loathe the game and everything associated with it.

Even with such a reputation, many fans were intrigued with with "the dark" villain, Mephiles. Some even call for Mephiles to make a reappearance, or at least for a threatening character "like Mephiles." 

Mephiles is one half of Solaris, an "eternal flame" of "hope." Though the "true Solaris" is beloved by the people of Soleanna, what Sonic & co. have seen paints a different picture. Regardless, Solaris was accidentally split.

Mephiles is the intelligent side of Solaris. Extremely manipulative and clever. He may be physically weaker than Iblis, but is stronger in many other ways.

Due to time travel, Shadow the Hedgehog caught Mephiles and sealed him with in an object, the "Scepter of Darkness." Years later the dark entity would be released and take the form of Shadow's...shadow. The "ironic" moment allowed Mephiles to gain the upper hand and exile the hedgehog (alongside Rouge) to the ruined Crisis City area.

In spite of his hatred for Shadow, he tried have the hedgehog "join" him. He would also reveal some painful facts about the future and attempted to divide Team Dark. Meanwhile he tricked Silver and Blaze while also avoiding Eggman, who was apparently looking for him. 

Much of Mephiles' motives are a mystery. Many players point out that Iblis was in the future, and since Mephiles can time travel he should have simply merged with the beast and became Solaris again. In the end, Mephiles does the unthinkable by "killing" Sonic...but why send Silver after the "Iblis Trigger" if he could just do the deed himself?

The creeper giving a speech.

Whatever the case, Mephiles enjoyed fooling, tempting, taunting, and/or manipulating characters. He often laughed at them and used information and illusions to his advantage. Shadow noted that Mephiles only craved "destruction."

The character was also very powerful. He was able inflict a version of time travel on others, and transport himself as well. He was able to transform his appearance in different ways and summon shadow monsters and enemies. Visual illusions and manifesting "clones" of himself were easy tasks to him.

Most villains in the Sonic series have an understanding motive, like greed or revenge. Mephiles wasn't simply upset from being sealed away. No, he was evil from the start, and he wanted to spread his darkness upon the world. As Solaris, he wanted to end it.

Mephiles is the "pure evil," a type of character that--as the name suggests--is darker than any of the others. Even his name was inspired with evil origins (Mephistopheles).

There is some debate on whether this character is "too dark" or if he's just a "dumb reskin," but many have praised the character and his role in Shadow's story.

Mephiles gave a heavy contrast to other enemies like Eggman (even he has helped to save the world--if it's gone he can't conquer it!). In the end Mephiles did what no other villain ever could--he won. Solaris may have been defeated, but only after Mephiles completed his task with a mouthless "smile."

"NICE SMILE!"

Best Villain? Part 4: The Eggman

Ivo Robotnik!

The most recognizable Sonic villain by far. Some say Eggman is the only villain the series needs (though even the character himself gets bored with the constant defeats). "Egg Salad" has had ups and downs, going from one extreme to another. The biggest challenge, it seems, is balancing his history and comedic traits while still making him a threat.

Sonic 1 introduced us to a dangerous foe, though his round appearance made him laughable, too. The classic era was spared of the funny/serious debate thanks to it's simplistic plot and balance.

Still, this was a problem bound to happen. It was even encountered in the Sonic cartoons. Adventures actually--despite being a slap-stick, funny show--was well balanced. Dr. Robotnik had a huge, ugly appearance and would do dumb things by mistake, but his hatred for Sonic seemed very real. His plans for Sonic gave the usually light-hearted show some tension.

HA

Sat Am set a very different standard. With Jim Cummings creepy voice and the different tone and script, Robotnik was a terrifying dictator. Though slightly redesigned, they couldn't mask his fat, (supposed to be funny) appearance. It was a sharp take on the character, but it didn't really fit with the Robotnik Sega created.

The OVA's version of Eggman/Robotnik was far more on the laughable side. Underground tried to compromise a bit by combining Sat Am Robotnik's forceful take and some of AoStH's mild stupidity. Unfortunately it wasn't a very memorable result. 

Then the problem hit the games. Sonic Adventure tied up the Eggman/Robotnik trouble, but this version of Ivo was more serious than expected. This continued for a while. He was now serious, but not quite as deadly sounding. He would often be over turned by other monsters or villains.

THE CREEPIEST THING ALIVE!

06 intended to make the character a threat again, reducing his comedic elements to an all time low and having him with sleeker, less cartoony robots. Unfortunately his "realistic" redesign is both creepy and hilarious as heck.

Unleashed also treated him in a similar way, but gave him a few funny moments. Generations let Eggman keep control over a monster and kept him as the main villain. Forces continued this.

Meanwhile games like Sonic Colors over-saturated his comedic energy. Though he was the main villain of the game, his constant presence and his failures (like trying to mind-control Tails) discredited his actions. And he made an Amusement Park that looks fun rather than the deadly trap seen in Unleashed.

06 and even Unleashed pushed the character too far one way, Colors and Lost World another. Adventure days and some of the other games are lackluster in comparison to either extreme.

So what's the balance?
The Movie gave the character a serious nature but left in a dance scene and other funny stuff, but he didn't feel like the same character.
Sonic Boom's Eggman is so far on the comedic side pretty much Sonic's friend. 
What does that leave?
Sonic X.

Sonic X handled Modren Robotnik--Eggman--the best. He would make jokes and use puns. He was also overconfident and bragged a lot. He's be defeated, but he's be back ("I'm like a bad penny. I always turn up." "I'm like a rubber ball. I keep bouncing back." etc).

But had his serious moments, too. He almost drowned Sonic. In the Season 1 finale, he beats the crap out of Sonic and dumps his body in the ocean. The adaptations of the Adventure games were handled with more energy. At the end of season 2 things started getting less serious, but the show was supposed to end...

Instead it came back with a threat bigger than Eggman, the Meterex--but the mad Doc wasn't out of the battle yet. He even joined the Meterex and gave them new technologies like the Star Shield. Still, realizing the intensity of the situation he helped Sonic at least twice.

The show had the freedom and time to show the different sides of Eggman. Maybe it's not possible to find that perfect balance in a game. Sonic Unleashed was close. Sonic Battle did a pretty good job.

Still, if one thing is for sure it's this: no villain will ever have the same determination (or history) against Sonic like Eggman does. 

BOMBS AWAY! YOU KNOW WHAT THEY SAY: THE MORE THE MERRIER! GET A LOAD OF THIS! I HATE THAT HEDGEHOG!